The Hai Ly Church ruins have endured for nearly a century on Vietnam’s northern coast, yet they now serve as a vivid sign of climate change. Their weather‑worn walls illustrate how rising seas can threaten cultural landmarks.

The original Sacred Heart Church was built in 1877, but coastal erosion and extreme weather forced the community to relocate the building several times. Each move pushed the structure farther inland, yet the remnants still cling to the shoreline, bearing witness to the sea’s advance.

In September 2026 the provincial committee officially designated the site as the Hai Ly Coastal Church Climate Change Heritage Site and a tourist destination. This recognition highlights the ruins’ dual role as both cultural heritage and climate‑change indicator.

Local authorities removed 23 unauthorized structures around the ruins, including 12 restaurants, to restore the open landscape and protect the historic remains. The demolition work cleared the immediate area, allowing the ruins to be viewed without modern intrusions.

Plans are now under way to develop a comprehensive spatial plan that will balance tourism development with the conservation of the ruins. The goal is to create a sustainable visitor experience while ensuring the church’s fragile fabric is preserved for future generations.